Writing an impactful objective statement may be one of the difficult parts of creating an awesome resume. While career objective statements don’t automatically grant you the interview they reflect who you are and what you’ll accomplish for the company.

What is a resume objective?

A good objective statement helps the employer to see exactly whether you could be the right employee in as short a time as possible. It is saying, "You're looking for a sales manager? Here's how this employee will be the best sales manager for your organization."

A Resume objective is not a necessity

Many people have this wrong belief that a resume objective is an absolute requirement. Nothing can be farther from the truth. A badly written resume objective can do more harm than good. So if you can not come up with an interesting, concise and focused objective statement then you will do well to not include an objective in your resume.

• However if you decide to use a resume objective, make sure to make it very specific, not vague and meaningless.
• Many job seekers make the mistake of writing a resume objective from their own perspective. Career objectives must be written keeping the employer's requirement in mind and it should clearly demonstrate the value the candidate will add to the organization.
• Career objectives should be as concise as possible.

When not to include a resume objective

Do not let a badly written objective statement take the punch out of your strongest resume point. So if you have a very strong academic record or you are a super achiever in your previous job or if you are a writer and have already published a book, then start with that accomplishment as the first line. Do not hide that under the resume objective.

Resume objectives must be job specific. So never use an objective when you are not sure about the role for which you are going to be considered.

It is a bad idea to use a resume objective if you are going to use the same resume for a number of job applications like in a career fair or an employment exchange.

A resume objective is a must

If you are a students applying for internships or if you have just graduated and looking for trainee jobs, then you can use resume objectives to show the recruiter what they stand to gain from a young applicant with little experience. Resume objectives give a focus to a resume that doesn't yet include much work experience.

People changing careers use objectives to show the employer what they can add to the organization, despite lack of directly relevant experience. Likewise, the resumes of people with very diverse experience will benefit from such added focus.

Key Points to Remember while drafting a resume objective

• Always write the resume objective keeping the need of the employer in mind
• Use keywords and language found in job advertisement to demonstrate that you’ve paid attention to what the employer needs.
• Never use the same resume objective for a number of different jobs. Tailor each resume objective to fit the position.

Some sample resume objectives to get you started

• A position in the accounting field where excellent analytical and technical skills can help to improve the company's profitability.
• A Data Entry position where skills in spreadsheet development and troubleshooting can improve efficiency and enhance profitability.
• A position as Assistant Engineer where construction knowledge, high mechanical aptitude and commitment to safety can contribute to profitable operation.
• A Graphic Design position where advanced graphic and creative skills will produce a quality product for agency customers.

Sample Resume Objectives


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